Embracing the Growth Mindset: Shifting From Pass or Fail to Pass or Practice

Nurse Educator Tips for Teaching

When nurse educators foster a growth mindset, they help students understand that mindset and attitudes are developed through dedication and practice, rather than fixed traits. One strategy to address this challenge is to modify our language to use words that foster continuous growth. In assessments where students are at the practice level, the terminology of pass or fail can be replaced with pass or practice. By using this terminology, students view practice as a constructive avenue for growth instead of inadequacy. In this podcast and teaching tip, Dr. Alison Hamner discusses how she promotes growth mindset in her courses.